Mavericks Shopping Former First Round Pick To Sign Dante Exum

Dallas holds two second-round picks available as trade sweeteners. Those assets could convince a team to take on Prosper’s contract. If no deal emerges, the Mavericks may consider the stretch provision. By stretching Prosper’s 2025-26 salary, they would create space under the second apron while retaining draft capital. The deadline to use that option arrives Friday, August 29.

Focus Shifts to Prosper

The Mavericks’ priority has turned squarely to finding a trade partner for Prosper. The forward, selected 24th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, showed flashes of promise last season. He appeared in 52 games, averaging 3.9 points and 2.4 rebounds in 11.2 minutes. Despite his potential, Prosper now finds himself in a precarious spot as Dallas maneuvers to keep Exum. Reports in late June first hinted at a possible Prosper trade, and the urgency has only grown.

Exum’s Steady Role in Dallas

Exum has earned the trust of the Mavericks’ coaching staff since his return to the NBA. Over the past two seasons, he provided steady play on both ends of the court. Last year, Exum averaged 8.7 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 18.6 minutes across 20 appearances. He missed most of last season with Dallas and Exum reached a one-year agreement on July 2, but the deal remains unsigned until roster space clears.

Weighing Short-Term Sacrifice for Stability

The front office faces a difficult choice. The  Mavericks trading Olivier-Maxence Prosper means parting with a recent first-round pick. Yet waiving and stretching him also carries long-term salary cap implications. Either decision underscores the importance Dallas places on keeping Exum, whose versatility has been vital off the bench.

A Defining Roster Move

As the deadline looms, Dallas must balance its investment in youth with its immediate pursuit of financial stability. By securing Exum, Dallas signals its intent to fortify depth and reliability in the backcourt. They are firmly in a championship window despite finishing 10th last season.

The next days will determine whether Prosper remains in Dallas or becomes a casualty of the Mavericks’ push to go under the apron and secure Exum’s place. The Nets are a likely landing spot.

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